Dongfeng KC

The interior cabin of the Dongfeng KC too has a curved dashboard with the centre console focusing towards the driver, just like what we see in the Dongfeng KL. However, here, the centre console is not as wide as the latter.

The boring looking two spoke large steering wheel, as well as the instrument console with blue graphics for analog dials, has been completely shared with the Dongfeng KL. The whole driver’s cockpit looks too functional and we would have loved to see attractive bits like digital MID and controls on the steering wheel to add some modernity to it.

The centre console which has been curved and facing towards the driver has a large rectangular panel with rounded bulges on either edge. This panel houses a single DIN audio system as well as controls for manual AC just below it. 

The lower portion of the dashboard houses an array of switches for varying controls. While the dashboard in whole looks pretty dated, the dual-tone black and light beige finish does make it look a bit acceptable to modern taste.

As said above, the Dongfeng KC is based on the KL series of trucks from the same stable, however, it does have its fair share of design alterations which give it its own identity.

At the front, the Dongfeng KC has the same rectangular windshield with curved edges which can be seen on the Dongfeng KL as well. Also, the windshield here too comes with a rectangular panel over it, which acts as a covering hat, just like in the KL, however, here it is finished in body colour and not black.

The front fascia of the Dongfeng KC has a simple design that has been shared much with the KL again. Like the front grille – it has a trapezoidal design with a chrome element running through the midst of it. The sides of the front panel do come with vertically laid faux air vents, which do act as a noteworthy design element to the front.

The front bumper here on the Dongfeng KC has bigger wide edges that do incorporate L-shaped headlamps with curved edges, just like what we already get in the KL. The headlamps come integrated with turn indicators, however, they do miss out on LED elements or projector bulbs. The fog lamps are placed slightly inwards of the front bumper, which do flank the lower grille in it.

The Dongfeng KC has a sturdy chassis that has a maximum wheelbase of 3500 mm and a ground clearance of 260 mm. With a front and rear axle specification of 7/13 x 2 tonnes, the Dongfeng KC has a good load-carrying capacity.

The Dongfeng KC has an 8.9-litre inline-six diesel engine which powers this mammoth of a truck. Paired to a 15-speed manual gearbox sourced from ZF, this engine has the capacity to produce a maximum power output of 340 PS and a peak torque output of 1500 Nm. The top speed of the Dongfeng KC is limited to 90 kmph.

The Dongfeng KC has no such noteworthy inclusions when it comes to active and passive safety features. The truck, however, has a sturdy build quality with heavy-duty body panels and chassis which can absorb shock at the time of collision.

The Dongfeng KC is classified as a modern truck, however, while the design is pleasant and easy to the eyes, it could have been equipped with more modern-day features to make it look more appealing. However, when it comes to the real deal of performing as a heavy-duty load-carrying vehicle, the Dongfeng KC passes off with flying colours.